Meet our Youth Group volunteer - Harvey
Harvey is a member of the Youth Group supervisory team. He is currently training to be a gardener and he is just 5 weeks away from finishing a 4 year apprenticeship at Godinton House, Ashford, Kent. We caught up with Harvey as he was busy completing his final coursework and spending time with his partner and daughter who were visiting him for the week. He’s a busy guy!
Harvey learning the craft of axe hewing as part of phase one of the cabin build
How did you first get involved with Andover Trees United?
How I first got involved with ATU goes all the way back to my primary school days when Wendy (ATU founder & project leader) was one of the teachers in my year. I got on to her eco-council and took part in gardening days on the weekends. I believe that experience first ‘planted the seed’ for my need to help the environment.
A little later in life I used to walk through Harmony Woods with my friends; I didn’t know what was happening but it looked impressive!
Then, in 2017, I accompanied my mum on a visit to the woods for Andover Mind and we were shown around by one of the volunteers, Terri. I met Wendy again after a long time and I told her “you got me!” and I jumped right in, helping wherever I could, firstly with lots of tree planting and then eventually helping with the youth team.
What sort of activities do you get up to with the youth team?
I help run the tree identification workshops; looking at the British native trees on the site and the features you look at to identify them. We did a Zoom workshop during lockdown however it was much better when we could eventually do this in the woods and be up-close to the trees.
We also camped in the woods which was a great experience as the wood (and the settlements around it) are quiet and so tranquil at that time. Most people don’t experience this and it feels special. We also did yoga to the sunrise.
What do you love about volunteering with Andover Trees United?
I love that all this positive action is happening right here in in my home town. For years, I strolled round the woods not knowing that all this was happening right under my nose. I love the community spirit, the connection to nature and the chance for creativity.
What have you learnt since joining the organisation?
I have learned the value of community; how everyone has their own story and we are all connected. I have also become a better communicator and I have learned how to be more organised (ish). I learn more about the natural world every time I visit the site.
What or who inspires you?
Steve Backshall was a big inspiration when growing up. I am sure a lot of wildlife lovers of my generation are inspired by him. Nowadays, I am inspired by the soil, pond life, friends and family.
What are you most looking forward too?
I am so looking forward to the cabin being built and all the amazing opportunities it will bring. It was so exciting to be involved with the hewing phase of the build.
I am also excited to be moving back to Hampshire and being able to give more of my time to ATU.
What would you say to someone thinking of volunteering with ATU?
If you are interested in the natural world, this is great way to connect with your local environment. More so, it is a way to connect with like-minded people. You will make connections for life and be inspired by other great minds of all ages! Its an amazing organisation which is supporting nature and community. Please visit the site and be wowed by the friendly faces and the sound of Skylarks.
Thank you Harvey for taking the time away from your studies and family to give us this fantastic response! We wish you all the best in the final 5 weeks of your apprenticeship.
The 2021 Youth Team is now full however we are looking for late teens/ young adults to help lead and help set up projects and programmes for pre-14 year olds? If you are feeling inspired by Harvey’s story and would like to get involved with ATU, then please get in touch today via volunteers@andovertrees.org.uk